Guest Post: Networking in Post-Grad Life: Think Greek!

By GreekForMe.com -

We network each and every day, sometimes without even realizing it. From idly chatting with our professors about our internship hunt to chatting with fraternity brothers about which classes we like and which ones we loathe. We form real connections with friends who may later turn into colleagues, with internship employers who may be our full-time job bosses one day, and professors who may help us secure that coveted first job. Here’s just a few of the way being a Greek can up your post-grad networking:

Greek Alumni – Greeks are a tight-knit bunch, and we can bet your fraternity chapter has a long list of alumni who would be willing to help you with a mentorship, internship, or even a job referral. Start early by connecting with some Greek alums at Greek events on campus, chatting with them about how Greek life helped them succeed in their professional life, how they got to where they are, etc. Ask for their personal contact information so you can reach out to them with any Greek life and career advice questions. Be sure to respect their time, but start building up an easy conversation with them. Having a base of trusted Greek alumni around you can dramatically help when it’s time to look for internships and jobs.

Fellow Greeks – Your fraternity brothers may not be able to help you land a job right now, but it’s pretty simple to get a sense of which brothers work hard, are trustworthy, and genuine “do right” kind of guys. These are the people you want to form genuine friendships with, as if they’re displaying that kind of maturity in college, they’ll likely go far in life and will help you do the same. Having a group of trusted friends around you throughout your life not only expands your connections, but makes you a well-rounded person.

Social Media – Twitter and Facebook have done a world of good for networking. Privacy is always a concern, as is being careful what you post on social media sites. But beyond that, follow and friend Greek alums, Greeks outside your campus, and those representing your Greek national organization on social media sites. Be yourself, but post intelligently – the whole world (well, all your Facebook friends and Twitter followers) can read what you’re saying, and those words have power. Comment and reply to other’s posts in a respectful, knowledgeable fashion. You’ll be building up your online presence, and can directly connect with those people who may be able to help you find an internship or job – or at least give you some great advice for post-grad life.

How has being a Greek helped you network? Share your real life examples!

(GreekForMe.com knows firsthand what it’s like to be a Greek, and the networking benefits that come along with it. One tip: wear Fraternity Apparel! It’s a great conversation topic, and you’ll be surprised by all the fellow Greeks you get to know.)